Meet the Bernalier, also known as the Mini Bernese Mountain Dog. These puppies are a mix of two popular breeds, the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. This special blend creates a sweet, smart, and adorable companion.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about Bernalier puppies. From their size and coat to their personality, care needs, and training tips, we’ll cover it all. Whether you live in an apartment or a house with a yard, this breed can fit right in. Let’s get started.
What is a Bernalier?
A Bernalier is a cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. This mix brings together two gentle, people-loving breeds. The result is a medium-sized dog that’s affectionate, calm, and eager to please. People often call them Mini Bernese Mountain Dogs because they look like a smaller version of the full-sized Bernese.
Bernaliers are not purebred dogs, but they are gaining popularity for their balanced size and warm personality. They are playful but not hyper, loyal but not clingy, and smart without being stubborn.
Breed Overview at a Glance
Size and Weight
- Height: 13 to 20 inches tall
- Weight: 25 to 50 pounds as adults
Lifespan
Bernaliers usually live 10 to 14 years. That’s longer than the average Bernese Mountain Dog, which typically lives 7 to 10 years.
Breed Group
Designer or hybrid breed.
Best for:
- Families with children
- First-time dog owners
- Apartment or suburban living
Temperament
Friendly, gentle, loyal, and relaxed.
Appearance and Coat Colors
Bernaliers have a soft, medium-length coat. Some have a slight wave, while others are straighter. Their coat often feels silky and is easy to maintain with regular brushing.
Common coat colors include:
- Black, white, and rust (the classic Bernese tri-color)
- Red and white
- Sable
Each Bernalier has a unique pattern, which adds to their charm. They often have expressive eyes, floppy ears, and sweet facial features that give them an irresistible look.
Are They Hypoallergenic?
No, Bernaliers are not hypoallergenic. They shed moderately all year. If you have allergies, this breed may not be the best choice. However, regular grooming can help manage dander and hair in your home.
Personality and Temperament
Bernaliers are known for their kind and easygoing personality. They are calm, affectionate, and love to be close to their people. If you’re looking for a family dog, this breed is a great match.
With Family
They bond closely with their owners and enjoy being part of daily life. They’re not the kind of dog that wants to be left alone all day.
With Kids and Other Pets
They are gentle and patient, making them a smart choice for homes with young children. They also get along well with other dogs and even cats, especially when introduced at a young age.
With Strangers
Most Bernaliers are friendly with visitors. They may bark once or twice but usually warm up quickly.
Ideal Home and Family Environment
Bernaliers are flexible and can adjust to different types of homes. They’re happy in apartments as long as they get their daily walks. They also enjoy larger homes with yards where they can play.
Best living situations:
- Apartments with regular exercise
- Houses with fenced yards
- Multi-pet households
Bernaliers do best in homes where someone is around during the day. They can get lonely if left alone for long hours. They like to be part of the family routine and are happiest when involved in your daily life.
Energy Levels and Exercise Needs
This breed has a moderate energy level. That means they enjoy being active but don’t need constant movement. A daily walk and some playtime are usually enough.
Daily exercise needs:
- 30 to 45 minutes of activity
- Walks, short hikes, or backyard games
They also love indoor play, training games, and toys that make them think. Keeping them mentally engaged helps prevent boredom and bad habits.
Intelligence and Trainability
Bernaliers are smart and eager to learn. They want to please their owners, which makes them fun and easy to train. They respond well to kind, reward-based methods.
Training tips:
- Use positive reinforcement like treats and praise
- Keep training sessions short and fun
- Start young for best results
They quickly pick up on basic commands like sit, stay, and come. Many Bernaliers also enjoy learning tricks and doing puzzles that challenge their minds.
Feeding and Nutrition Guide
Feeding your Bernalier the right diet keeps them healthy and full of energy. Their needs change as they grow, so it’s important to adjust their meals by life stage.
- Puppy Stage: Puppies need food rich in protein and calories to support growth. Choose high-quality puppy food with real meat as the first ingredient. Feed them 3 to 4 small meals each day.
- Adult Stage: Once they’re fully grown, switch to adult dog food with a balanced mix of protein, fat, and fiber. Two meals a day work well for most adults.
- Senior Stage: Older dogs need fewer calories to avoid weight gain. Choose a senior formula or ask your vet about the best option. Watch their weight and adjust food portions if needed.
Foods to Avoid
Never feed your Bernalier chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, or anything with xylitol. These foods are toxic for dogs. Stick to vet-approved diets and avoid too many table scraps.
Grooming and Coat Care
Bernaliers are not high-maintenance, but they do need regular grooming to stay clean and comfortable. Their medium-length coat sheds moderately all year.
Brushing
Brush them 2 to 3 times a week to remove loose hair and prevent tangles. During spring and fall, they may shed more and need extra brushing.
Bathing
They only need a bath every 4 to 6 weeks unless they get dirty. Use a gentle dog shampoo to avoid skin dryness.
Nail and Ear Care
Trim their nails regularly—about once a month. Long nails can cause discomfort or walking issues. Also, check their ears weekly. Clean them gently to avoid wax buildup and infections.
Home Grooming vs. Professional Grooming
You can handle most grooming at home, but occasional visits to a professional groomer can help with trimming, ear cleaning, and coat shaping.
Health and Wellness
Bernaliers are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they can inherit certain health issues. Knowing what to look for can help you catch problems early.
Common Health Concerns
- Hip and elbow dysplasia (from the Bernese side)
- Heart problems (common in Cavaliers)
- Ear infections due to floppy ears
Preventive Care Tips
- Schedule regular vet checkups
- Keep up with vaccinations and flea control
- Brush their teeth several times a week
- Watch for any changes in behavior or appetite
With proper care, most Bernaliers live happy, healthy lives into their early teens.
Living with a Bernalier
Bernaliers are easy to live with. They fit into many homes and routines, as long as they have company and daily exercise.
Daily Life
They enjoy structure. Give them a daily routine of walks, meals, play, and quiet time. They don’t do well being left alone all day and may develop separation anxiety if left for too long.
Good Fit For:
- Families with kids
- Retired couples
- Singles with time for a companion
They like to be involved in whatever you’re doing—from outdoor walks to cozy evenings on the couch. Their flexible nature makes them great for many lifestyles.
Where to Find Bernalier Puppies
If you’re ready to bring home a Bernalier, it’s important to find a healthy, well-raised puppy from a responsible source. Whether buying or adopting, do your homework.
Reputable Breeders
Work with breeders who care about the health and socialization of their puppies. A good breeder will offer health guarantees, clearances for the parents, and let you meet the puppies in a safe, clean space.
We offer carefully raised Mini Bernese puppies for sale that are socialized, healthy, and ready to join your family. Be sure to ask breeders about their process and how they prepare puppies for life at home.
Adoption Centers
Some Bernaliers may be available through breed-specific rescues or general animal shelters. While less common, adoption is a great option if you’re open to older puppies or adult dogs.
Always check that the dog has been seen by a vet, is up to date on vaccines, and has been spayed or neutered.
Is a Bernalier Right for You?
Still wondering if a Bernalier is the right choice? Here’s a quick breakdown.
Pros
- Affectionate and loyal
- Adaptable to apartments or houses
- Good with children and other pets
- Easy to train and eager to please
Cons
- Not hypoallergenic
- Moderate shedding
- Needs companionship—doesn’t like being alone
- Some risk of inherited health issues
If you’re looking for a dog that’s cuddly, easy to train, and full of charm, the Bernalier may be the perfect fit.
Bernalier Puppies for SaleÂ
At Crockett Pups, we specialize in raising healthy, happy Bernalier puppies that are ready to become part of your family. As a trusted and experienced breeder, we focus on the well-being of every puppy from day one.
Why Choose Crockett Pups?
- All puppies are raised in loving, hands-on environments
- We provide early socialization, ensuring confident, friendly dogs
- Health screenings and vet checks are part of every adoption
- Transparent process with regular updates for future owners
Our team is dedicated to helping each family find the right match. Whether you’re a first-time owner or adding a new dog to your household, our staff offers guidance every step of the way.
We encourage potential families to learn about the breed, visit our site, and speak with our team before making a decision. If you’re looking for Bernalier puppies for sale from a reliable source, Crockett Pups is here to help.
Conclusion
The Bernalier, or Mini Bernese Mountain Dog, is a loving and balanced breed. They’re playful without being too energetic, affectionate without being needy, and small enough for most homes. Whether you’re a first-time owner or adding to a busy family, this breed offers the best of both worlds—beauty, brains, and heart.
Looking to bring home your own Bernalier? Take your time to choose a puppy from a trusted breeder or rescue. With care, love, and a little patience, your Bernalier will reward you with years of loyal friendship.
